Travelers using high-speed ferries to navigate between the Greek islands have reported significant seasickness. This summer, many have taken to social media to share their experiences of rough waters and crews distributing sick bags to affected passengers.
These ferries have been affectionately—or perhaps not so affectionately—nicknamed the “Vomit Comet.” As noted by a travel expert, high-speed ferry travel is quite popular with those wanting a quick route between islands. “Most clients are looking for the quickest path from point A to point B,” said Mina Agnos, the founder and president of a luxury travel agency. However, she pointed out that adverse wind and sea conditions, especially around the Cyclades, can turn a trip into a challenge. The notorious Meltemi winds can whip across the Aegean Sea, making things bumpy.
Despite the natural beauty and abundant history that draw tourists to Greece—reflected in a reported 21% increase in arrivals from January to May this year—these fast-paced ferry rides can be quite a torment for some. Santorini alone saw about 3.4 million visitors this year, underscoring the island’s popularity.
A number of social media users have expressed their discomfort on these ferries. Some high-speed boats can reach speeds upwards of 40 to 50 knots, which translates to about 46 to 58 miles per hour—a fact that ferry companies promote as a benefit, cutting travel times significantly. Yet as the Wall Street Journal highlighted, this speed carries its own set of downsides.
One booking operator noted that high-speed ferries can face rough waves during stormy weather and that choppy seas heighten the likelihood of seasickness. A traveler recently posted on a Reddit forum dedicated to Greek tourism, sharing concerns about the ferry from Piraeus to Naxos after hearing many harrowing tales of distress on quicker ferries. While this individual’s family typically does not suffer from motion sickness, he felt compelled to seek advice.
He mentioned a past experience on a fast ferry, suggesting that the nature of motion can be unpredictable. “I don’t get seasick easily, but it was a different kind of motion,” he recalled. Another participant in the discussion warned that once someone begins feeling nauseous, it can trigger a sort of chain reaction among other passengers.
In fact, horror stories filled social media, with one Redditor recounting their “ferry from hell” experience, mentioning how turbulent conditions led to vomiting among passengers within minutes. Such incidents have led thousands to label these ferries with less-than-flattering nicknames.
Nonetheless, Agnos offered a counterpoint, suggesting that the frequency of these distressing experiences might be overstated by social media. “We’ve had a surge in tourist numbers, which might amplify the stories of discomfort,” she noted, citing her extensive experience in the industry. “It’s rare, but for those on short trips, it can certainly affect their experience.”
Agnos recommended coordinating with a knowledgeable travel advisor to navigate the complexities of travel within Greece, ensuring that routes minimize long ferry journeys where possible.
Kelly Shea, an Indiana-based travel advisor, echoed this sentiment, advising her clients to consider flying to popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos rather than facing the uncertainty of ferry rides. “This summer has been particularly challenging in the Cyclades due to strong winds and waves,” Shea commented, highlighting the risks involved with sea travel in the region.
